India Reaches Out to UNSC Non-Permanent Members After Pahalgam Terror Attack

In response to the devastating terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which resulted in the loss of 26 civilian lives, India has taken diplomatic steps by reaching out to the non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). On April 22, 2025, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in crucial conversations with counterparts from eight UNSC member nations to express India’s commitment to seeking justice for the victims.

India has blamed Pakistan for the attack in Pahalgam. | NDTV

Diplomatic Engagement Following the Attack

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar's diplomatic efforts included a significant phone call to Danish counterpart Lars Lokke Rasmussen on Wednesday, where he reaffirmed India’s determination to hold the perpetrators accountable. On the preceding day, Jaishankar spoke to the Foreign Ministers of Algeria, Greece, Guyana, Panama, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, and Somalia, all of whom are serving on the UNSC for a two-year term. These conversations are critical, as Pakistan, a member of the UNSC for the 2025-26 term, may influence the body’s response to the attack.

India has directly linked Pakistan to the attack, citing the involvement of The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy group associated with the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Despite Pakistan's denial and call for a neutral investigation, India remains steadfast in its demand for severe punishment for those responsible.

UN Security Council Response and Challenges

The UN Security Council condemned the Pahalgam attack on April 25, 2025, calling it one of the most serious threats to international peace and security. However, the statement was viewed as insufficient, with indications that Pakistan had influenced the phrasing of the condemnation. India’s outreach to UNSC members was, therefore, part of a broader strategy to ensure a stronger international stance on the issue.

India's diplomatic offensive also included a call from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, during which Jaishankar expressed gratitude for Guterres' unequivocal condemnation of the attack and underscored India’s resolve to ensure accountability. Jaishankar reiterated this sentiment in a social media post, affirming that India is determined to bring all those responsible—whether perpetrators, planners, or backers—to justice.

Global Condemnation and India’s Firm Stance

India has continued its diplomatic efforts by engaging with global leaders. Presidents and Prime Ministers from countries such as the United States, France, Israel, Egypt, Jordan, and Italy have expressed their condemnation of the attack in Pahalgam. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also addressed the issue, vowing that the "perpetrators and conspirators" would face a severe response from India.

In a statement on Tuesday, PM Modi confirmed that India’s armed forces have been granted complete operational freedom to decide on the nature, targets, and timing of the country’s response. He further emphasized that combating terrorism remains a national priority, with India determined to deliver a decisive blow to the forces responsible for such attacks.

Conclusion

India’s diplomatic engagement with the UNSC’s non-permanent members and the international community highlights its resolve to combat terrorism and bring the Pahalgam attackers to justice. Despite Pakistan’s denials and attempts to moderate the UNSC's response, India’s firm stance and global support are likely to drive continued pressure for accountability.

(With inputs from NDTV)